I know Estes Park would be way too crowded in July and August. How about May? I'm going to be there May 28th-31. Are there tons of people around at that time too? People are recommended Grand Lake over Estes Park because of the crowds but, I was hoping May would be better. Thanks!

The town of Estes Park sucks anytime. Nothing would be lost if it suddenly disappeared from the face of the earth.

Yes-May will probably be a lot less crowded-just an FYI about May weather...it doesn't mean summer. WE have had snow in May-even late May many many times-just be prepared-it could also be 80 and gorgeous!-ANd personally, I prefer Grand Lake area and Winter Park area over Estes-just my own personal preference.

Gee, Les, that was realy a helpful answer to the posting. Did you wake up on the wrong side of the east coast this morning?

Trish,

Although I, too, prefer Grand Lake over Estes Park, they both tend to get pretty crowded in the summer.

I'm sure you're aware that the dates you mentioned are immediately following Memorial Day weekend. Many people turn that four day week into a week off so you might posssbly encounter summer-type crowds that week. Also, that happens to be the first weekend in Colorado when some lodges and B & Bs open for business (especially in Grand Lake).

Just thought you might like to know.

Davidcs

I don't know where you're from, but Estes Park at its worst is infinitely better than where I live.

Tom,
Part of the original post concerned a choice between Grand Lake and Estes Park. I hope my input makes that choice easier.

Dave,
The surroundings of Estes Park are beautiful. I was talking about the town itself. I don't know where you're from, but if it's someplace like Gatlinburg, Branson, or Niagara Falls, then you might argue that Estes Park is better (but you'd probably lose the argument).

Trish,

If you're coming from an urban area looking for a peaceful mountain retreat, you are far better off going to Grand Lake. If you're looking for touristy kitsch with opportunities for side trips to hike, etc., then Estes should be fine. I would think you'll be okay crowdwise over Memorial Weekend but it may be quite chilly still (or it may be blazing hot). Estes has a fun, funky old movie theatre downtown if you need some relaxation time. Oh yeah, here's a tip--there's a traffic cop who stands in the middle of main street. DO NOT cross the street unless he/she tells you to--otherwise they literally scream at you and make you go back. Wow, welcome to Estes...public relations at its finest!

Les,

Since leaving home for college, I have lived in Terre Haute and South Bend, IN; Wilkes-Barre, PA; and am currently living near Youngstown, OH. If the pattern holds, I'll soon end up in either Gary or Jersey City!

I'll gladly trade you any of those places for Estes Park. (Although I do agree that there is a Gatlinburg-esque quality about EP.)